5 Ways To Keep Kids Fit While Having Fun

How to Keep Kids Fit While They’re Having Fun

With smart phones, TV, video games and social media everywhere we turn, inactivity among our children is rampant. Parents know the importance of teaching children the value of living a healthy and active lifestyle. However, inspiring action from their kids is not always an easy task.

Here are five tips to keep kids healthy and fit without sacrificing FUN!

1. Keep them busy outdoors – In the summer, a sprinkler can provide hours of entertainment for young kids. If you enjoy gardening, involve your children and allow them to care for their own plants.

2. Go on family bike rides – Biking is a great bonding activity for the whole family, as well as great exercise! Have a destination in mind, such as a yogurt shop or the local park to make the experience that much more fun for the kids.

3. Have designated computer/TV time – By having a designated allowance for time spent on the computer or TV, you’re teaching your children to find other ways to have fun without depriving them of personal downtime.

4. Get involved! – Don’t tell your kids to go play outside and then plop yourself down on the couch to watch TV. Instead, go join them outside – read a book, water the plants or simply take a walk and enjoy the weather!

5. Encourage participation in sports – Kids of every age can enjoy sports, whether it’s going to soccer practice or shooting some hoops in the driveway. Participating in sports doesn’t always have to cost a lot of money—check out your local Y or start your own informal neighborhood team.

The founder of Active Parenting Publishers, Dr. Michael H. Popkin is the author of many award winning video-based parenting education programs. An expert in the field of parenting education, Dr. Popkin earned a doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Georgia State University and has served as Director of Child and Family Services at an Atlanta hospital. He and his family currently live in Atlanta. For more information about Dr. Popkin, as well as a complete listing of his books and videos, advice from Dr. Popkin, a Parents’ Discussion Forum, and a list of parenting workshops in your area, visit www.activeparenting.com